Jeremy Casey

The Cobblers have recalled goalkeeper Dean Snedker ahead of the busy Christmas period.

Snedker joined Conference North neighbours Brackley Town on loan last month to get some first team football, but has now been recalled to Sixfields bolster the Cobblers squad ahead of a busy Christmas and New Year programme.

Chris Wilder’s men play four games in the space of 14 days, starting with Saturday’s trip to Carlisle United.

On Boxing Day, the Cobblers are at home to Bury, and then on Sunday, December 28 they go to Tranmere Rovers.

There is no New Year’s Day fixture this season, but on January 3 Town entertain Southend United.

Snedker’s recall adds competition to the goalkeeping department, which currently boasts Matt Duke and Jordan Archer, who is loan from Tottenham Hotspur.

Archer had been the number one choice until he was sent-off in the 2-0 defeat at Southend three weeks ago.

That meant he was suspended for last weekend’s match against Plymouth that saw Duke return between the sticks, and although he conceded three goals, none of them were the fault of the former Bradford City man.

Snedker had been preparing to play in goal for Brackley in their home clash against AFC Fylde on Saturday, but will now travel to Cumbria with the Cobblers squad.